Antiviral and Immunomodulatory Effects of Interferon Lambda at the Maternal-Fetal Interface

Interferon lambda (IFN-λ, type III IFN, IL-28/29) is a family of antiviral cytokines that are especially important at barrier sites, including the maternal-fetal interface. Recent discoveries have identified important roles for IFN-λ during pregnancy, particularly in the context of congenital infections. Here, we provide a comprehensive review of the activity of IFN-λ at the maternal-fetal interface, highlighting cell types that produce and respond to IFN-λ in the placenta, decidua, and endometrium. Further, we discuss the role of IFN-λ during infections with congenital pathogens including Zika virus, human cytomegalovirus, rubella virus, and Listeria monocytogenes . We discuss advances in experimental models that can be used to fill important knowledge gaps about IFN-λ-mediated immunity.